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Music Lesson Reviews from Students

Students are raving about their Music instructors on TakeLessons.
Check out some of these recent reviews.

Review by Kim

"Hannah is kind, patient, and knowledgeable. She is extremely musical and has a beautiful voice - and she plays the piano well! I highly recommend her!"

Boston, MA teacher:
Hannah C.

Review by Sofia

"She is excellent, my daughter loves her lessons. I have noticed a lot of improvement. Highly recommended."

Boston, MA teacher:
Christien B.

Review by Warren

"More than met my expectations, Kristin quelled my anxieties, quickly built rapport and built a solid base on just our first lesson."

Boston, MA teacher:
Kristin M.

Review by Ronnie

"Billy made it fun and interesting at the same time - He told me I had hope! Not talent - Hope!"

Boston, MA teacher:
Billy G.

Review by CORRINA

"Such a great experience. My 11 year old daughter loves taking lessons with her."

Boston, MA teacher:
Bethany A.

Review by Megan

"I have personally worked with Sara this past year at the University of Redlands. We collaborated on The Merry Widow by Franz Lehar. I admire her diction a

s well as her musicality. She maintains her professionalism wherever she goes. She is not only a great friend but she is a great musician too. Any student that has the opportunity to study with her, will learn a lot from her."

...

Boston, MA teacher:
Sara J.

Review by Nick K

"David is fantastic. He is well prepared each lesson, takes the time and energy to understand my habits and challenges as a player and gives great cues and

advice for improving my play. I'm very grateful to have connected and tapped into his expertise."

...

Boston, MA teacher:
David B.

Review by Andy S

"If you are looking for a superior guitar instructor, go no further - Jonas Kublickas is that person! Our son has been taking lessons from Jonas for a litt

le over two years. Even though our son is dyslexic and learns differently, Jonas understood the situation, connected with him, and has turned him into the second best guitarist in Salzburg :) Jonas will always have our thanks, and we are proud to recommend him to anyone who is considering taking guitar lessons."

...

Boston, MA teacher:
Jonas K.

Review by Shervin

"I took piano and voice lessons with Parham for a year. Parham is a talented pianist, and an excellent teacher. Parham cares about each of his students a

nd the direction they wish to take in music. He customizes his teaching method in the way to fit them best, and does this in a continuous dynamic dialogue with students.As a teacher, Parham is patient and passionate. He doesn’t mind to spend extra time for a student to make sure his/her class has been productive.Parham is connected to Berklee College of Music community, and besides what he teaches through the lessons, one could learn a lot about music in a bigger picture.All in all, I am happy with my experience with Parham."

About Danielle S.

About Danielle

I am a piano-playing singer/songwriter and graduate of Berklee College of Music with a degree in Professional Music focusing on songwriting, performance, and teaching. I was a leader of my high school music ministry (choir) for four years (Bishop Brady H.S., Concord NH) and volunteered as a 2nd grade Sunday School teacher (Immaculate Heart of Mary, Concord, NH) in my senior year. I have several years of performance experience having performed at The Farm Bar & Grille in Essex, MA, the Lizard Lounge and Cantab Lounge both in Cambridge, MA. I have appeared on Community Auditions (2011) and compose music for local independent film company Door Eleven Productions. I have long had a passion for music and would feel rewarded to be able to pass my knowledge onto you! I am friendly, patient and open to just about any genre of music you would be i

nterested in exploring. I am also able to provide a solid foundation of proper breath management, vocal exercises focusing on pitch and technique, and sight-reading. My goal is for you to be able to thoroughly develop your skills as a singer and performer!

*** Lesson Details ***I am laid-back but hardworking and expect an equal level of commitment from my students. I am primarily interested in teaching beginner-intermediate level pupils. Prospective students can expect to start each lesson with vocal exercises focusing on breath support, posture and pitch. Any professional performer understands the importance of warming up prior to performing! Once properly warmed up, you give your voice the range and flexibility it needs to sing beautifully and effectively! I encourage note-taking as well as recording the lessons either on cassette or even your cellphone to assist in practicing on your own between lessons. Depending on my students level of experience, I will then decide which songs to work on that would best fit your range and area of interest. Once a certain amount of progress has been made I will open the doors to my students deciding on songs they'd like to work on specifically as well. After 3-6 months, I would anticipate my students to be able to effectively warm-up their voices on their own through exercises we will have covered, at least a basic understanding of how to sight-read your melody and certainly have a handful of songs memorized and ready to add to your repertoire!

*** Travel Equipment ***I would bring my keyboard to each lesson unless one was provided (tuned pianos are okay as well). I would also bring music and texts that I would find beneficial to each particular student. I would expect my student to provide a journal to take notes and track progress. Also, though not necessary in all cases, I would expect my student to have sheet music for songs they're interested in learning as well as CD/cassette/MP3/etc. of songs they're interested in learning.

*** Specialties ***I would start with a foundation of proper warm-ups, breathing techniques, and vocal exercises with me accompanying on piano. We would then spend the second half of the lesson working on songs primarily of my students choosing. I would be comfortable with just about any genre thus being able to cater to each one of my student's unique areas of interest.

...

Reviews

Sherry O. December 1, 2013·Singing·

This product has great features

Words will never be enough to express what Danielle has done for my daughter and her love of singing. Danielle has shown so much patience and commitment through her instruction and has boosted my daughters confidence 110%. She knows how to chose the perfect song for Alexis' voice and the emails that she sends after each session provide the proper tools for my daughter to carry out her 1 hour session to a full week. I could not have picked a better vocal coach for my daughter.

Monica F. April 18, 2013·Singing·

Exceeds expectations

My daughter Julia has been taking singing lessons with Danielle since July. Julia is in second grade and this is her first time taking singing lessons. Danielle has devoted so much time to researching good vocal exercises and music selections for a young singer and also to learning the songs Julia was interested in singing. Danielle always follows up within 24 hours with the audio for the lesson and an encouraging email. Danielle is very patient with Julia and takes a genuine interest in her. She listens to the little stories Julia likes to share with her and remembers details of what Julia shares, and has even taken a little extra time to teach Julia a little about playing the keyboard. I can't say enough good things about Danielle. She is a fantastic teacher and a lovely person.

Arden D. March 11, 2013·Singing·

Singing lessons

I run a mentoring program and one of my mentees really wanted to learn how to sing. Through Take Lessons we found Danielle. She is terrific. Very professional and very patient. My mentee is learning so much with Danielle's help. I don't think this 16 year old girl has ever really been expected to work hard on perfecting something so it has been so good for her. This whole experience has been a real joy!

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Danielle S.

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Danielle S.

Salem, MA 01970

(4)

starting at

$40
/ 30-min

About Efren M.

About Efren

Started Piano and formal Music instruction at age 10. Joined University of the Americas School of Music in 1997 where he became a Piano student of international Piano authorities such as Daniel Rodriguez, Carmen Badillo and Dr. Misa Ito

Studied Musicology and Music History with Dr. Luisa Vilar Paya, Dean of Humanities at the University of The Americas.

While already working in South Florida as a Music Teacher, he attended Graduate studies at Florida Atlantic University where he studied Piano with Leonid Treer, Edward/Anne Louis Turgeon and also Music Production and Commercial Music with eminent scholar Michael Zager, former producer of Whitney Houston.

Founded Ampersand Music Studio LLC in Boca Raton where he currently works as Music and Piano Teacher.

...

Reviews

Judith H. June 24, 2014·Piano·In studio

I'm an adult who had NO fun whatsoever to go to my piano classes due to the fact that Efren has a controlling style approach. All you have to do is listen to what he has to say, you can't get a word in and is condescending. I can't even imagine being a child and having to put up with his bullying.

Miryame S. June 19, 2014·Piano·In studio

Efren is a great teacher. He is very patient and knows what he is doing. This is my first time learning piano, I always like to learn how to play but Efren makes me love it. He comes prepared And teaches me soo well and I'm very thankful to have him as my teacher â¤ï¸â¤ï¸â¤ï¸â¤ï¸

Nicole G. March 6, 2014··

Excellent Teacher

Efren is an amazing teacher. He is very patient with my daughter and is really great at getting her to focus. She has made great progress in the time that he has been teaching her!

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Efren M.

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Efren M.

Lexington, MA 02420

(13)

starting at

$29
/ 30-min

About Bil M.

About Bil

I am one of those individuals for whom teaching is just something that I have to do. I started giving music lessons sometime in the 80's and have loved working with all levels of skill and experience. My students say that I am patient, adaptive and encouraging, committed to making music fun.

I have a Masters of Music from New England Conservatory in Jazz Piano and am comfortable and fluent in a number of musical styles, including pop, rock, gospel, traditional hymnody, jazz, and R&B. Although I love and study classical music, it is not something I teach at this point.

In addition to private lessons and performing, I do music transcription, workshops, and all forms of vocal and instrumental arranging. Bil Mooney-McCoy is a life-long Boston resident who has been playing music all his life. Having served as a church musician for more

than 30 years, I am currently the Director of Worship for the chapel at Gordon College, a small Christian school north of Boston. I'm often involved in city-wide music events in Boston’s faith-based community and in demand as a featured musician for church services, parties, concerts and other events.

I hold a Masters of Music from New England Conservatory in Jazz Piano and am comfortable and fluent in a number of musical styles. In addition to private lessons and performing, I do music transcription, workshops, and all forms of vocal and instrumental arranging. My passions include morning coffee, finding new guitar chords, creating killer PowerPoint presentations, and trying to figure out how to use my smart phone.

*** Lesson Details ***My priority as a teacher is to make the learning process fun, life-giving, and productive. I teach with patience and humor, at a challenging but not frustrating pace.

Some quotes from my students: "I absolutely love learning from Bil! I've watched my playing and the playing of others at church vastly improve as a result of his training."

"[Bil] is filled with a large amount of knowledge, so while sitting under him you not only learn about how to play but you learn about music history and theory. Beyond being a good teacher he is genuine and friendly and cares about others."

"I have really enjoyed working with Bil. His patience and wealth of knowledge has helped me come out of my musical shell and has encouraged me to discover my musical voice."

"Bil makes learning theory fun! His deep understanding of music is complemented by his contagious enthusiasm."

"Bil has taken me to a different level. I went from tab and basic guitar chords, to building jazz chords and a far greater understanding of music theory."

There are at least two ways that might set me apart from other teachers.

Firstly, I have honed and developed "people skills". I am an ordained minister and have held positions where I was formally and informally in a mentoring/pastoring role. I bring that sensitivity to my music lessons, understanding that personal and emotional issues can be triggered by the engagement with the music and skills being worked on.

Secondly, I've had a remarkable broad base of experience. My coursework has exposed me to a wide breadth of ideas and tools; my work life has been long and varied; I have had extensive experience in many different cultural contexts, both musically and otherwise; and I work well with many age groups and skill levels.

Regarding my teaching approach:For beginners, I have a fairly consistent set of topics and skill sets to cover. Generally, in a few months, piano students (particularly those in middle school through adulthood) should know how to play major, minor and seventh chords, how to read simple chord charts and some very basic accompanying skills. Guitar students should know a dozen open chords and have been introduced to barre chords, and to have learned several styles of finger picking as well as strumming. Bass students should know how to find notes on the board and will have begun to learn how to fill out a song with an expressive but non-obtrusive bass line.

For intermediate students, the pace, direction and focus on lessons depends upon the goals and passions of the student along with the amount of time he or she has to practice. My goals for students at this level and beyond is to learn how to learn. I will use outstanding recorded examples of particular skills or stylistic idioms to help my students understand and master each new concept. I often will check in with my student to make sure that we are on track with what they are hoping for.

For advanced students, we will generally target very specific objectives. I also try to add elements of theory, history, culture, and even life lessons to apply to the topics we address. Because of my background in pastoral ministry, I can serve as a mentor addressing the emotional and relational issues of playing music as well as its technical aspects.

*** Travel Equipment ***if for guitar or bass, that instrument; I expect piano students to have an available keyboard and for other students to have their own instrument(s).

*** Specialties ***strong in jazz, rock, pop, gospel, sacred, R&B.

...

Reviews

Hardy C. June 23, 2017·Songwriting·In home

Bill is a great instructor. I haven't been taught something I wasn't going to need to elevate my understanding.

suzanne November 5, 2016·Piano·In studio

great first lesson! bill was a great choice for me!

Patricia R. April 2, 2016·Piano·In studio

He's the best. Will totally understand if I haven't had a chance to practice and still manages to make the lesson productive. He gives options on how I want to be taught and is willing to adjust. Have learned so much in so little time.

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Bil M.

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Bil M.

Beverly, MA 01915

(6)

starting at

$30
/ 30-min

About Christine E.

About Christine

I absolutely love music and my goal is to help my students learn to love and appreciate music as well. I am a graduate of Umass Lowell's Music Education program. I began playing at the age of 6 and haven't been able to stop. I've taught private piano for the last 16 years as well as group lessons. Most of my experience is with beginning students, but I teach all levels. My experiences in my past private lessons as well as in the teaching program at Umass have helped me to understand my students and how to help them reach their goals.

*** Lesson Details ***I work with my students to help them set and achieve their goals. Each lesson is designed and prepped to meet each student's individual needs. I believe in integrating theory, history, ear training, and technique into each lesson to develop musicianship and an overall knowl

edge of the subject rather than just learning to play. I have high expectations for my students, yet I am patient and understanding. At times lessons may be challenging, but they will also be fun!

*** Travel Equipment ***I expect the students to have a keyboard/piano appropriate to their level of playing for us to have our lesson on. I will provide any books or supplementary material that may be needed. Any books purchased specifically for that student will need to be reimbursed.

*** Specialties ***Teaching young beginners and elementary age children.

...

Reviews

Melissa P. July 26, 2016·Piano·In home

Christine has been very reliable and punctual. She is very sweet and patient with my 6 year old. My daughter is very comfortable with her and likes her a lot. I would recommend her to anyone looking to take piano lessons.

Chris January 14, 2016·Piano·In home

Ms. Christine is a great piano teacher who can adapt to young and not so young. She is patient and knowledgeable and has a great background in music. Highly recommended!

Rachell R. August 8, 2015·Piano·In home

My 2 daughters have been taking lessons with Christine for many years. They really enjoy the time spent with her. She is an excellent teacher. Very dependable.

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Christine E.

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Christine E.

Amesbury, MA 01913

(6)

starting at

$35
/ 30-min

About Frankie P.

About Frankie

Being a Berklee College of Music Graduate with a Masters in Music Education from Boston University, I have been playing for almost 30 years and teaching private lessons for 15+, I am a Professional Instructor that has the ability and resources to teach several styles ranging from Rock to Classical to Jazz to Country to Metal. In other words, anything you want to learn I can teach you or your child using the songs and exercises necessary to help you become a real musician.

*** Lesson Details ***The lessons are tailored to you and your wants as a musician. Whether you have an electric, acoustic, or classical guitar, along with various method books, I have the music, print outs, and instructional material to make sure you progress as you should.

The lessons will help you learn to play guitar through chord diagrams,

theory, charts, examples, and exercises, as well as anything you hear on the radio.

*** Travel Equipment ***The students should have their own instrument and method book. Other that that, I provide all other handouts and supplemental material and handouts.

*** Specialties ***I work the most in rock, bluegrass, country, contemporary, and jazz styles.

...

Reviews

Anetta June 10, 2017·Piano·

Frankie teaches the perfect mix of fun and serious technique! His care to make sure the student not only learns but understands why and what they are learning has me excited to stick with piano for the long haul! I can't wait to se what future lessons bring! :)

Matthew December 29, 2016·Banjo·In studio

Great, knowledgeable teacher. Highly recommend.

Skye B. April 30, 2016·Clarinet·In home

He quickly assess my dayghter's level and began immediately teaching her new notes and how to read music.

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Frankie P.

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Frankie P.

Salem, MA 01970

(4)

starting at

$30
/ 30-min

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About Kelly J.

About Kelly

Hi, I'm Kelly and I love teaching students to love music! I've been teaching private piano students for nine years, and have taught more than 200 kids and adults. My goal is to help my students explore their own personal gift of music - because we each have one! Whether your dream is to become a concert pianist, a pop music pro or play the Stars Wars theme song, I'll coach you to get there! Along the way, we'll have lots of fun learning through music that you get to choose and come to love. I look forward to meeting you!

...

Reviews

Pauline February 7, 2017·Piano·In studio

I don't think we could have found a better teacher for my daughter (5 years old). She is the perfect blend of encouraging, challenging, and fun. My daughter actually enjoys practicing, which says as much about her love of piano playing as it does about Kelly's teaching style.

Caiden January 19, 2017·Piano·In home

Kelly had our 7 year old reading music and playing by the end of his first session! We are already looking forward to our next lesson.

Veriny December 10, 2016·Piano·In home

My daughter's first lesson with Kelly was excellent. I can tell she was nervous, but Kelly made it comfortable for her. The moment we got home, she went straight to practicing.

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Kelly J.

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Kelly J.

Peabody, MA 01960

(21)

starting at

$30
/ 30-min

About Xiomara D.

About Xiomara

I am a full time music teacher during the academic school year in Lawrence, MA at an elementary school. I graduated from Gordon College in 2016 with a bachelor's degree in Music Education. I absolutely love teaching and making music with others! I can teach beginning piano and intermediate level.

I want my students to not only learn about music, but I want them to relate to their music and really gain a life-enriching experience. My lessons will teach new skills and incorporate those skills into familiar and new songs! While I want students to learn timeless songs from the past, I believe they can use their skills to learn songs they love as well. Students will be challenged as they move forward but not in a frustrating manner. I will work with students at any pace they need!

Xiomara D.

Xiomara D.

About Bob W.

About Bob

Hi, Bob here...... very much looking forward to meeting you! I've been teaching music since 1980 (Guitar, Bass, Piano and Voice) and I love helping my students play well! Of course we throw jamming and/or composing music into the mix when desired and appropriate. Many of my students perform, and record their music. I earned my degrees from the Berklee College of Music for Performance and Music Ed. in 1980. I founded my School of Music in 1983, which served as a prep school for Berklee and other schools. We offered private instruction, courses, ensembles and recording courses and producing artists and band's CD's. Many of my former students have become major stars and celebs in music.I'm a warm, funny, passionate person. I love to teach and my teaching style is a patient, step by step, and custom tailored approach for your individu

al needs and goals. Always an emphasis on FUN! My philosophy as a teacher is to give you the tools and help you develop skills with them so that you can learn and grow musically on your own! I look forward to helping you reach and achieve all your goals!

...

Reviews

K.R. July 11, 2017·Guitar·In studio

Bob is committed to helping you achieve your goals. His instructional approach is multi-faceted, engaging, fun, and produces results.

Xander E May 24, 2017·Acoustic Guitar·Online

Amazing enthusiastic teacher!
I have a friend who has been taking lessons from one teacher for 3 years and learned one song! (Not even correctly) But, myself, have been taking lessons with Bob Wolfman for 2-3 months and have learned the grid method, cord construction theory, the musical staff, not to mention 2 whole songs. I would recommend this teacher to anyone willing to learn guitar correctly and productively.

Jackie May 18, 2017·Ukulele·In studio

I took lessons with Bob for 8 weeks, and was able to accomplish the things that I initially set out to do: have a better understanding of music theory, start to be able to read music, and to actually be able to play a song or two on the ukulele. Had my schedule not become impossible to work around, I would have continued. As someone who had never played ANY instrument, it's daunting to start at age 38, but this made it easier. I feel that I have the tools to continue to grow on my own. Thank you!

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Bob W.

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Bob W.

Middleton, MA 01949

(20)

starting at

$50
/ 45-min

About Holly S.

About Holly

My 20 years of musical experience taught me that JOY is as important as knowledge and technique. We'll pursue a learning trajectory that suits you and your goals (large or small!), all while providing you with the encouragement to enjoy the process as well as the results. My teaching style is dynamic and positive; I want you to look forward to your lessons. And I have both the teaching and performing chops to challenge you and impart some serious skills.I have my Bachelor of Music from the Peabody Conservatory and a Postgraduate Diploma in Trombone Performance from the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester, England. I've taught a wide range of students -- from children who've never before picked up an instrument, to accomplished high schoolers, to adults who've always wanted to learn and finally have the freedom to do so.I enj

oy helping people as much as I enjoy performing, and I'd love the chance to inspire and encourage you however I can.

...

Reviews

Brett S. September 25, 2017·Trumpet·Online

Holly is a wonderful music instructor: talented, energetic and positive! Holly's friendly disposition removed any of the "distance" that might be associated with online education.

meredith September 11, 2017·Trumpet·In studio

Very enthusiastic and knowledgeable!

Greta July 25, 2017·Trumpet·Online

My daughter's lesson with Holly was amazing. My daughter started playing trumpet at the age of 6. I bought her a used trumpet and she basically taught herself how to read music and how to play. By the time she was in middle school, after several years of elementary school band class, where everyone learns an instrument, my daughter had grown bored of her trumpet. She was great at it, but there was no challenge and very little inspiration for her to play. When she met Holly for her lesson that all changed. She was able to talk with Holly and share with her many of her trumpet and band experiences. Holly was enthusiastic and positive as an instructor. She really was able to connect with my daughter(a teenager) and encourage her. My daughter left her lesson feeling very interested in trumpet again and wanting to explore a variety of music she could play on her trumpet. For the next few days she was listening to various trumpet players online and different music styles, at Holly's recommendation.
I can confidently recommend Holly as an instructor for any student who wishes to play trumpet. I believe she is the perfect instructor for my middle school daughter.

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